To Kill A Mockingbird; 12/15/14

Pages Read: FINISHED
Author: Harper Lee
Prompt: Do you think that the book was realistic?

     To Kill a Mockingbird is one of those inordinate novels that just leave you meditative. I do not mean inordinate in a bad way, but in a much more positively grateful way. Literature pieces themed coming-of-age have always left a sentimental feeling in me. Sometimes coming-of-age stories try too hard to get that emotional grasp. That it just leaves it unrealistic. Nonetheless, To Kill a Mockingbird gave more of a realistic feel to the reader because it was not forced scenery or emotion. In a way it wasn't overly dramatic. Everything went soothingly like a mockingbird flying freely not disturbing anyone.

     Since there were a variety of themes in this novel, it helped it not be rough and concentrated on just coming-of-age. It also taught something meaningful and truthful about the world. This book was written a few years after the time it takes place, not much difference. Therefore, it gives the present readers an accurate perspective of life back then. For example, racial discrimination is one of the issues in To Kill a Mockingbird. We still have this problem today but not as severely. Due to the fact that we are able to compare some present day experiences to the 1930's gives that realistic feel.

     We all grow up and as we do we make mistakes and learn from them. Scout, the main character, is experiencing as well as her brother, Jem. One can relate a lot to them, especially me. Since I see and realize this connection between me and the characters it gives a realistic feel to it. With this I am able to interpret and make the conclusion that when one is able to connect to a book, that gives it a realistic feel. I may be wrong but this my overall conclusion. Therefore, yes, I do positively think the book, To Kill a Mockingbird, written by Harper Lee, was realistic.

Found Poetry; To Kill a Mockingbird - Week of 12/7/14

"Jeremy Atticus Finch,"

"Never declined a dare"

"a policy of cowardness"

"To preserve the delicate balance of our relationship,"

"'Hold your head high and be a gentleman'"

"has his blind spots"

"It was impossible"

"phase of self-conscious,"

"with mixed feelings"

"it was Jem's turn to cry,"

"getting older and she follows"

"'Mister Jem,'"

"Felt his age"

"Old enough to listen,"

"beginning to understand"

"he said at last, 'When I was your age...'"

TKAM Character Relationships - 12/4/14

Characters Chosen: Dill and Francis

Similarities and Differences

     Dill and Francis are around the same age. Scout mentions Francis is a year older than her and so is Dill. There was also a point when Dill and Scout started separate because Dill would push her away. Francis did the same thing but because he was Scout's foil. "he enjoyed everything I disapproved of, and disliked ingenuous diversions." They also seem to be assured with every choice they make. What I mean by this is that they are confident on their actions and sayings. Difference, Dill is kinder than Francis. Dill has a filter though he does show confidence without being rude. He also has much more respect for Scout and a variety of things. Francis, though, seems to be influenced by others around him that makes him seem like he has no filter. Therefore, Francis is more rude. Francis calls Scout's father a "nigger-lover" he would probably only hear that around his parents. Also calls Dill a "little runt" then tells Scout, "You're mighty dumb sometimes, Jean Louise." Which is a reason why Scout and him do not get along.

Relationship/Effect To Scout

     Dill is a friend to Scout. Well, actually more than a friend at this moment, they are engaged. As mentioned before they get along very well. Dill has taken up a big part of Scout's life. They are alter-egos. They've had many adventures together along with Jem. Dill is also one of those boys who seem to take the lead in many situation. He has this sort-of adult personality compared to Scout. Since they are fiancees they have a strong relationship which is a huge support for the plot line in this book. Dill is part of Scout's childhood and forever will be.

     Francis, is portrayed as one of those... brats. In chapter 9 Scout already got mad at Francis and had a little war chasing. Scout was really aggravated because she called Francis her 'prey'. "When stalking one's prey it is best to take one's time. Say nothing, and as sure as eggs he will become curious and emerge." I do not think Francis is much of a supporting character for Scout's life. He is just one of those annoying characters for the main character. As mentioned Francis is Scout's foil.

TKAM Photo Analyzes

Observe:

     I see a big family with very young children. There is a lady carrying a baby with one hand and the other maybe holding a diaper. There is a wide open field in the back. The house is small and old. Each gamily member is not wearing shoes. They look tried based on the way are standing. Except the little boy, but he's young.

Interpretation

     There really isn't any men in the picture. The oldest male there is the one sitting on the porch but he is probably is not old enough to do much. The men are probably working in the fields. Based on their setting there is a field in the back for plantation. The men are probably working there. The woman holding the baby might be a stay home mother to care for her children. The other lady's might be grandparents or another family members. They are probably living there and help the mother. The house also seems too small and old. They probably do not have enough money to move so they have no choice but to stay in that home. They also seem poor because they have no shoes. Maybe they can't afford shoes either.